Category: Americas

  • California Double Take: Wine Country to Beaches

    California Double Take: Wine Country to Beaches

    California, the Golden State, is renowned for its diverse landscapes, vibrant culture, and historical significance. As the most populous state in the U.S., California boasts everything from sunny beaches and towering redwoods to bustling cities and scenic vineyards. Its history is marked by pivotal events such as the Gold Rush of the mid-19th century, which…

  • A Taste of the North Carolina’s Triad:   Greensboro, Winston-Salem, Highpoint and Rolling Vineyards

    A Taste of the North Carolina’s Triad: Greensboro, Winston-Salem, Highpoint and Rolling Vineyards

    Greensboro, NC Greensboro Coliseum Greensboro Science Center Winston-Salem, NC Wake Forest Basketball Piedmont Wine Country/Yadkin Valley, NC Vineyards and Wineries Pilot Mountain State Park Asheboro, NC The North Carolina Zoo High Point, NC Historic Downtown High Point Thomasville, NC Historic Downtown Thomasville Mount Airy, NC Historic Downtown Mount Airy The NC Triad—made up of Greensboro,…

  • Double-take on Utah: From National Parks to Thermal Springs

    Double-take on Utah: From National Parks to Thermal Springs

    Utah, located in the western United States, is a state of striking contrasts and natural wonders, known for its stunning red rock landscapes, snow-capped mountains, and vast desert expanses. From world-renowned national parks to vibrant cities, Utah offers outdoor enthusiasts endless opportunities for adventure, including hiking, skiing, rock climbing, and exploring unique geological formations. Beyond…

  • Two Takes on the Windward Islands (Lesser Antilles): Exploring Barbados, St. Lucia & Dominica

    Two Takes on the Windward Islands (Lesser Antilles): Exploring Barbados, St. Lucia & Dominica

    The Windward Islands, part of the southern Lesser Antilles in the Caribbean Sea, are a captivating group of islands known for their dramatic volcanic landscapes, lush rainforests, and vibrant cultures rooted in African, European, and Indigenous heritage. These islands played a significant role in colonial history, having been shaped by centuries of conflict and trade…

  • Double Take: Discovering Saratoga Springs’ Historic Heart and Small-Town Soul

    Double Take: Discovering Saratoga Springs’ Historic Heart and Small-Town Soul

    Nestled in upstate New York, Saratoga Springs has long been a destination for health, history, and horses. Founded in the 19th century, the town gained national fame for its naturally carbonated mineral springs, which were once thought to have healing powers. Wealthy vacationers flocked here in the Gilded Age, drawn to the spas, elegant hotels,…

  • Two Takes on the Road to Hāna(Hawaii): Waterfalls & Other National Wonder

    Two Takes on the Road to Hāna(Hawaii): Waterfalls & Other National Wonder

    Ho’okipa Beach Twin Falls (MM 2) Kaulanapueo Church (MM 3.5) Huelo Lookout Fruit Stand (MM 4.5) Painted Grove of Rainbow Eucalyptus Trees (MM 6.7) Waikamoi Nature Trail (MM 9.5) The Garden of Eden (MM 10.6) Puohokamoa Falls (MM 10.8) Ke’anae Arboretum (MM 16) Ching’s Pond (MM 16.8) Ke’anae Peninsula Halfway to Hana Snack Shop (MM…

  • Greater Antilles Getaways: Two Ways to Experience Caribbean Magic

    Greater Antilles Getaways: Two Ways to Experience Caribbean Magic

    The Greater Antilles, including Dominican Republic, Puerto Rico, Jamaica, and the Cayman Islands, offer some of the most iconic and diverse experiences in the Caribbean. Each island brings its own unique blend of history, culture, and natural beauty, from the colonial charm of Old San Juan to the rhythmic beats of Jamaican reggae and the…

  • Two Different Takes on Cartagena, Colombia: City Adventures vs. Beachside Bliss

    Two Different Takes on Cartagena, Colombia: City Adventures vs. Beachside Bliss

    Nestled along Colombia’s Caribbean coast, Cartagena is a city that effortlessly blends history, culture, and natural beauty. Known for its vibrant colonial architecture, cobblestone streets, and lively plazas, Cartagena’s walled Old Town offers a glimpse into a rich past, while its bustling markets and flavorful cuisine highlight the city’s dynamic present. Just beyond the historic…

  • Two Takes on Jamaica: From Runaway Bay to Montego Bay to Negril Adventures

    Two Takes on Jamaica: From Runaway Bay to Montego Bay to Negril Adventures

    Jamaica is a vibrant Caribbean island known for its breathtaking beaches, lush mountains, and rich cultural heritage. From the iconic Seven Mile Beach in Negril to the scenic hiking trails of the Blue Mountains, the island offers stunning natural beauty and plenty of outdoor adventures like zip-lining, river tubing, and swimming with dolphins. As the…

  • Double Take: City Vibes & Wine Country Wonders in San Francisco, Napa & Sonoma

    Double Take: City Vibes & Wine Country Wonders in San Francisco, Napa & Sonoma

    San Francisco and California’s Wine Country offer an unforgettable blend of rich history, natural beauty, and vibrant culture. This “Double Take” explores two perspectives on the region: one immersed in the urban charm and iconic landmarks of San Francisco, and the other basking in the rolling vineyards and laid-back elegance of Napa and Sonoma. San…